Irish Sexual Assault Treatment Units See Rising Demand, Face Staffing and Space Issues

Ireland's Sexual Assault Treatment Units (SATUs) are experiencing growing demand, with over 400 people attending the Rotunda Hospital's SATU annually. Despite this, staff fear public awareness of their services is low. There are six SATUs nationwide, and attendance is increasing.

Professor Maeve Eogan, National Clinical Lead for HSE's SATUs, emphasizes that services are available for anyone who has experienced or suspects sexual violence. While forensic samples like toxicology or DNA are typically not taken after seven days, examinations for injury and follow-up emotional support are always available. Forensic exams, which can last 90 minutes to three hours, are tailored to individual needs and require signed consent, which can be withdrawn at any point.

Kate O'Halloran, Candidate Advanced Nurse Practitioner at Rotunda SATU, highlights staffing and space challenges. The unit relies on medical colleagues from other specialisms to maintain its 24/7 roster, and space is tight. An expansion is planned for this year, with a longer-term commitment for SATU facilities in a new critical care wing of the Rotunda Hospital, pending planning permission. All SATU services, including up to six months of follow-up care, are free.

Laura Feeley, Senior Medical Social Worker at Rotunda SATU, provides psycho-social support and referrals. The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) offers an accompaniment service for survivors navigating formal settings like SATUs, garda stations, and courts. This service, which began over 20 years ago, provides skilled support workers who believe survivors without judgment. DNA samples collected at SATUs are stored for one year, allowing survivors time to decide on legal action; about one in five who use this option later pursue legal pathways. There is no statute of limitations for reporting sexual offenses in Ireland.